With stores such as Tiffany & Co. and Louis Vuitton, Rodeo Drive in
Beverly Hills may be beyond the means of most college students on a
budget. But as a cultural icon, it’s a must-see.

“When I think of Rodeo Drive, I always remember that scene in Pretty
Woman,” says Sarah Sperry ’05, referring to the moment when Julia
Roberts’ character, dressed in less than the finest, gets turned away
from a high-end store. For most of us, the best bet on Rodeo is
window-shopping and people-watching.

Equally noteworthy for its L.A. glitz is the Sunset Strip. This street
attracts a younger crowd than Rodeo—and has more nightlife. But be
warned, some of the clubs on this street are so elite that you may not
even be able to peek inside. Likewise, Melrose Avenue is a hopping place
to take a stroll, with its abundance of flashy boutiques and
restaurant-bars. If you’re looking for the best shredded-cotton skirt
money can buy, this might be your place.

To escape the ritzy Westside, head east to the smaller, funky Silver
Lake district. Vintage clothing (Ozzy Dots, Pull My Daisy, Squaresville)
and independent music stores (Rockaway Records) are some of the staples
of the neighborhood, aside from the numerous coffee shops and eclectic
dining options. Most of the good spots are on Sunset Boulevard or
Vermont Avenue, and those two streets intersect—which is convenient for
walking this district. For a really bizarre time, check out La Luz de
Jesus low-brow art gallery and its sister gift shop, Wacko.